Screening drills are essential for basketball teams looking to create effective offensive plays. They help players learn how to set screens, read defenses, and create open shots for teammates. Below are three diverse examples of screening drills to elevate your offensive game.
This drill is fundamental for players to understand the pick and roll concept, a common offensive play in basketball. It emphasizes teamwork and communication between the ball handler and the screener.
In this drill, start with a point guard (PG) at the top of the key and a power forward (PF) on the wing. The PG will dribble towards the PF and call for a screen. The PF sets a solid screen, ensuring they are stationary and not moving into the defender. After the screen, the PG uses the pick and drives towards the basket, while the PF rolls to the hoop for a potential pass.
Encourage the PG to read the defense. If the defender fights through the screen, the PG can take a shot or pass to the rolling PF. If the defense switches, the PG should look to exploit the mismatch.
This drill is designed to create space for shooters. It focuses on the down screen technique, where one player screens for a teammate coming off the screen to receive the ball.
To set up, place two players on the wing and one player at the top of the key. The player at the top will set a down screen for one of the wing players. The wing player will use the screen to cut towards the top of the key, receiving a pass from the player at the top. After setting the screen, the screener will pop out to the three-point line to receive a pass as well.
This drill teaches players how to time their cuts and how to create shooting opportunities. The player at the top of the key should focus on making accurate passes, while the wing player should practice their shooting form.
An elevator screen is a unique and effective way to free up a shooter. This drill helps players learn how to execute this play effectively, creating a clear shot opportunity.
To execute the elevator screen, start with two players on the blocks and one player handling the ball at the wing. The ball handler will signal for the screen. Both block players will step towards each other to create a narrow gap – like an elevator door closing – as the shooter runs through the screen from the wing.
Once the shooter passes through, they should be ready to receive a pass from the ball handler and take a shot. This drill requires precise timing from the screeners and good communication between all players involved.
By practicing these screening drills, players will enhance their ability to create offensive opportunities, leading to better teamwork and improved game performance.